Barclays Premier League title chasers Liverpool will visit South East Asia this summer, it was announced on Wednesday.

England's most successful team will use the two-game tour as an integral part of their pre-season preparation for the 2009-2010 campaign.

The Reds will fly direct from their training camp in Switzerland to play games in Bangkok (July 22nd) and Singapore (July 26th) for the tour organised by Strategic Sports Investment, part of the Profitable Group.

Manager Rafael Benitez said: "We have a fantastic group of fans in bothThailand and Singapore and it will be great to take the lads out there again."

Ian Ayre, Liverpool FC Commercial Director, commented: "South East Asia is clearly a key region for Liverpool FC. As we continue to develop our international plans, being able to allow fans all over the world to see the team live is paramount.

"We have already had very positive feedback from our supporters clubs in the region and the club will be working closely with them, our sponsors and other local partners to ensure this is an exciting and memorable tour."

Former Liverpool star Steve McMahon, Profitable Group's Commercial Director said: " It is fantastic news that we are able to bring one of the best club sides in the world to Thailand and Singapore. It will give a real opportunity for Liverpool fans in the South East Asian region a chance to see their heroes play up close."

The President of the Thai Football Association, Dato Worawi Makudi said: "Liverpool's return to the kingdom is long overdue. When they were here last time everyone concerned with the tour had a great experience and we are looking forward to making sure that this will be an even better event for them this time.

"It's also a fantastic opportunity for the fans to witness one of the top sides in the Premier League, a league that is unrivaled here in Thailand. The experience that our players will receive from this game will help in the development of Thai football."

The General Secretary of the Football Association of Singapore, Winston Lee commented: "We are very pleased to welcome Liverpool back to Singapore. Many Singapore football fans are also fans of English football and they will look forward to this opportunity to catch one of the top club sides in the world in action against their very own local football stars right here in our country.

"Inviting teams such as Liverpool as well as Brazil and Australia last year is part of our continued efforts to bring top class football action to our shores. It will not only be a great experience for our fans but our players will get exposure to world-class teams and players."

22nd July 2009

Thailand National Team v Liverpool Football Club

Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok
8.00pm Kick Off (local time)
Bangkok is 6 hours ahead of Liverpool


26th July 2009

Singapore National Team v Liverpool Football Club

National Stadium, Singapore
7.00pm Kick Off (local time)
Singapore is 7 hours ahead of Liverpool